2026 UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball Fundraiser – Philadelphia

The United Negro College Fund Philadelphia is holding its 2026 Mayor’s Masked Ball fundraiser and awards ceremony — UNCF’s signature event, helping to support these life-changing scholarship efforts. It will be a night to shine. Hosted by UNCF Philadelphia and Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, the annual event will be Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Center City Hotel, 12th & Market streets, from 7 p.m. EST to 10 p.m. EST (Doors open at 6 p.m. EST).

Five community and corporate difference-makers will be the 2026 Mayor’s Masked Award recipients: Cheryl McKissack Daniel, President & CEO of McKissack & McKissack, who will be honored with the Individual Champion Award; the Exelon Corporation will receive the Corporate Champion Award; and The Michael Ann and Saquon Barkley Foundation will be the beneficiaries of the Community Support Champion Award. Joseph Hill, Managing Director of Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, will receive the Advancing Young Leadership Award (ATLA), and legendary hip-hop icons Philadelphia’s The Roots will be honored with a special Semiquincentennial Legacy Award to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary and signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

The fun-filled evening will feature a live auction with exclusive items and experiences, a silent auction, and raffle with coveted prizes. Attendees will don their finest fancy show-stopping masks and formal wear for a night of glitz, glitter, glamour and philanthropy to support the UNCF’s mission to provide educational opportunities for college students in need. Be part of an evening of elegance and excitement while making a meaningful impact in the community. Over the years, UNCF has raised more than $6 billion to assist more than 550,000 students paving a promising future.